Cash Advance Apps
MoneyLion

Is MoneyLion app legit?

By Editorial Team
Last Updated: Jun 13, 2025

MoneyLion is a legit cash advance app. Founded in 2013, the company has been operating for over 10 years and claims to have served over 18 million users since its launch. While MoneyLion is legit, it's important to be aware that they have faced legal actions in recent years. In November 2023, they settled with the Colorado Attorney General after an investigation found they collected illegal membership fees tied to loans, agreeing to return $271,000 to consumers and pay $75,000 to the Attorney General’s office. Additionally, in September 2022, the CFPB sued MoneyLion for alleged violations of the Military Lending Act, and as of May 2025, the BBB has given them a C- rating due to government actions and unresolved complaints.

How reliable is MoneyLion?

Hundreds of MoneyLion reviews from May 2025 that we analyzed suggest users can rely on the app. Here’s what they have to say about it:

  • Lifesaver: Many users describe MoneyLion as a “lifesaver”, providing crucial help when they're short on cash.
  • Reliable and always there: Numerous people highlight that MoneyLion is "always there when I need it," emphasizing its dependability.
  • Easy and convenient: Users appreciate the app's ease of use and quick access to funds in times of need.
  • Helpful customer service: Some reviewers commend the responsive and supportive customer service team.

Overall, the consensus is clear: MoneyLion is a dependable service that users trust to help them navigate financial challenges, whether it's bridging the gap until payday, handling unexpected expenses, or avoiding overdraft fees.

Table of contents

How reliable is MoneyLion?How much can I get from MoneyLion?What users say?Scam reports

How much can I get from MoneyLion?

While MoneyLion advertises cash advances up to $1,000, user experiences vary. Here's what people are saying:

  • Higher limits possible: some users report advance limits increasing quickly, with amounts up to $850 or more.
  • Withdrawal limits: many mention that even with higher limits, you can only withdraw $100 at a time, requiring multiple transactions.
  • Extra fees: each $100 withdrawal may come with its own fee, which can add up if you need a larger sum.
  • Inconsistent amounts: some users have experienced sudden reductions in their available advance amounts without clear explanations.
App reviews talking about Loan Amounts:
"...you can only do 100 dollars max. then if you want to take more than a 100 you have to do multiple transactions..."
"...you are never allowed to take more than 100 at a time, so you have to request a cash advance for 100 several times..."
"...I needed a bit of a pay day advance, MoneyLion came through, and it wasn't a measly $25 either..."

What users say?

Positive
1%
Negative
99%
Many users complain about difficulties in canceling their subscriptions with MoneyLion. They report being unable to delete their accounts without contacting customer service, which often results in prolonged and frustrating interactions. Some users mention being charged even after attempting to cancel, with one user highlighting a recurring charge of $19.99 instead of the expected $9.99. The sentiment is overwhelmingly negative, with users feeling trapped by a service they no longer wish to use.
App reviews talking about Subscription Cancellation:
"...they are refusing to do so..."
"...I can’t close my account..."
"...not allowing me to cancel it for 3 months..."

Scam reports

Even though MoneyLion is a legitimate company, we found over 30 recent reviews that describe the service as scammy (from hundreds we analyzed). About 20 users explicitly call the service a “scam”, “fraud”, or “thieves”, while others report unauthorized charges, overcharging, and difficulty cancelling services.

Several users are frustrated with the "play and earn" feature, claiming they couldn't redeem their rewards due to verification issues or additional requirements. A few express concerns about possible data misuse and fear their personal information may have been compromised.

Overall, many users feel tricked or financially harmed, pointing to unwanted loans, hidden fees, and unresponsive customer service as major issues.

App reviews talking about Scam:
"...they stole $200 for me and then gave me the runaround..."
"...I was scammed out of my bonus reward in the play and earn section..."
"...they will have your account canceled for no reason and tell you that you won't be able to get money..."